Empower, Advance and Lift Up Our Youth

Youth who have been involved in the foster care system face unique challenges and need the support of our community. Although some of these individuals qualify for tuition and fee exemptions, there are many costs associated with post-secondary education that are not typically covered. Private colleges and universities, vocational/trade and career schools, and necessary supplies such as books, computers and meal plans are generally extra expenses that fall under the responsibility of the student.

The Guardian ad Litem Foundation of Florida’s First Coast, with the generous support of John and Margie Arrowsmith in memory of their daughter, Krista, have established The Empowerment Scholarship Endowment that will help bridge the gap for these young adults residing in Duval, Clay, and Nassau Counties who have been involved in the dependency court system or have aged out of foster care. Revenue raised through the endowment and ongoing donations will be used to empower these individuals as they navigate through post-secondary education to rise above their circumstances.